| More than half a million babies are born too soon every year. Many die. More than 120,000 babies are born with serious birth defects that can mean a lifetime disability. That’s why the March of Dimes is leading the national fight to save babies from premature birth – the leading killer of newborns – and from other serious threats to infant health.
WalkAmerica, the walk that saves babies, is the organization’s largest fundraiser. Since it’s beginnings in 1970, it has been the country’s first and best-loved walking event. WalkAmerica is taking place on Sunday, April 29 at 18 New Jersey Locations.
“Premature birth has become a critical health issue in this country. Every day, babies are being born too soon and too sick to survive on their own,” said Darryl Caplan of Cureton Caplan who is one of the 2007 WalkAmerica Chairs. “By being a part of WalkAmerica and raising money for research, we can help save babies and give hope to families,” he added
WalkAMerica in New Jersey is slated to raise $4.4 million. With the community’s support in WalkAmerica, the March of Dimes conducts top-level research into causes and preventions of premature birth and birth defects. The March of Dimes also brings information and emotional support to families who have had a premature or sick baby who is being treated in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
For more information about WalkAmerica on Sunday, April 29 visit walkamerica.org or call 1-800-BIG-WALK.
WalkAmerica is sponsored locally by Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Wachovia, PSEG, Sovereign Bank and TDBanknorth. The 2007 National WalkAmerica Sponsors are CIGNA, Continental Airlines, Famous Footwear, Farmers, FedEx and Kmart. Additional national sponsorship is provided by Discovery Health, Grain Foods Foundation, Mead Johnson Nutritionals and Outdoor Services.
The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For more information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org for Spanish.
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